April 27, 2018 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm MST

From the artist:
As a painter, I am attracted to the Renaissance technique of chiaroscuro, strong contrasts in illumination between light and dark areas. Black velvet enhances this effect and also provides textural features you can not get on canvas.

When I started studying black velvet painting, I came across paintings by Edgar Leeteg. He mostly painted portraits of Tahitian people using chiaroscuro with stunning effect. They completely changed my perception of velvet art. In my work, I am trying to change people’s perception of black velvet paintings just as Leeteg’s work affected mine.

I started teaching myself velvet painting in 2007 and I made a pilgrimage to The Velveteria Museum of Velvet Paintings in 2008 which was a life-changing experience. Hundreds of velvet paintings covered their walls in all different styles. I discovered other masters such as Cece Rodriguez, Daniel Guerrero, Burke Tyree and Louis Behan. 11 years later, I have several pieces in The Velveteria in downtown Los Angeles.

I’m inspired mostly by contrasts in light and dark and texture, or just about anything that makes me think, “that will look great on velvet!” My work has been shown in Tucson, Bisbee, Phoenix, Mexico, Colorado, Los Angeles and Miami. It has also been used in sets for television shows and a Jay-Z music video.

Diane’s artwork is available for viewing and purchase in the Hotel Congress lobby from April 3rd to May 7th. Meet her at the artist opening reception from 6-8pm on Friday, April 27th.

About Hotel Congress
Hotel Congress, a historic hotel, is home to the award-winning The Cup Café restaurant, famous Club Congress, and beautiful Copper Hall, located in the center of Downtown Tucson’s Historic East End. For more information call (520) 622-8848 or visit www.hotelcongress.com.

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